Shamrock Shines at Aiken Fall Festival I

Finally Farm’s Shamrock has been knocking at the door this year in the USHJA Derby classes, and during the Aiken Fall Festival I, September 8-11 in Aiken, South Carolina, he stepped through to the blue ribbon in the USHJA National Hunter Derby.

“It was so nice to have a $10,000 National Derby,” said rider Liza Boyd. “Typically these classes don’t have that much prize money, so it was great that show manager J.P. Godard did that. We really appreciated the extra incentive, and I think it brought out more horses and made it a better competition. This class had the same same feel of an International derby; it was tough enough with bending lines and turns in the handy.”

Although Shamrock is a First Year Green horse, he came from an eventing background and has spent the year adjusting to his new role as a hunter. Boyd was pleased that all of the pieces are falling into place, and her training is paying off.

“I did a little 1.10m jumper class the day before the derby as a warm up,” she explained. “I went in there to train on him, and we worked on our lead changes and half halts and sitting trot through the changes. With him, it’s all about the flatwork.”

Liza also credited her sister-in-law Margie for helping her with Shamrock. In addition to assisting Liza with Shamrock’s flatwork, Margie, a dressage rider, has spent time in the saddle with him. “She’s given me some different perspectives, and she’s helped me work on getting him stronger and straighter,” added Liza.

Shamrock and Liza won the first round of the derby and returned last for the Handy Round.

“Taylor Ann Adams and Daniel Geitner went for it in the handy, so I had to do the same thing,” said Liza. She took the two available inside turns and sliced the trot jump, with Shamrock totally in tune to her directions and guidance to clinch the win.

“This was a great experience for him,” she said. “The course had the elements of a derby, such as the hay bales and natural jumps. It was really nice for him not to have to jump so high as in an International Derby to get this experience, and he was able to put everything else together.”

Liz Fogleman’s one-year show anniversary with her horse Sawyer was a special one, as he jumped to the Pre-Green Reserve Championship. Last year at this show he made his debut in the Baby Greens.

“Looking back at photos, it’s so nice to see how he’s developed, especially his topline and neck,” said Liza. “Liz has been working with a dressage trainer where she lives, and you can tell there’s a big difference with his flatwork. We’re now going to less bit when jumping him, and he’s getting stronger.

“Liz has been very patient,” added Liza. “When you buy a 4-year-old, you have to be in for the long haul, and she’s been really working hard with him, and it’s nice to see him coming along so well. It’s been a fun process to follow and start one as a 4-year-old, and next year as a 6-year-old we’ll move him to the 3’3’ and do some National Hunter Derbies. Those classes will help prepare him for the First Years at 7.”

Liza and Liz are also planning to take advantage of the new USHJA Young Hunter sections that will debut for the 2017 show season, where Sawyer can compete against his peers.

“I know that Liz is really excited about having this new opportunity and will also aim for the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship next year,” said Liza. “It’s great to have all of these new programs that the USHJA is offering. Sawyer is the perfect example of one who is going up the pipeline after being imported as a young, green horse, and I’m excited he’ll be my trial through the pipeline.”

Other Finally Farm hunters also excelled at Aiken, with Maddy Thatcher taking excellent ribbons in the Amateur-Owner sections. She placed second, fourth and sixth in the Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic with Summer Place, Jewel and Like I Said, respectively.

Reserve champion tricolors were also earned by Elegance and Zola Thompson in the Small/Medium Pony Hunters and by Elly Ficca and Quatrain in the Children’s Hunters.

“We’re excited for this new partnership between Elly and Quatrain; I think she’s going to lease him for the year,” said Liza. “He’ll stay in the barn, and she’ll move up quickly to the 3’3” Juniors. This was her first time showing Quatrain after coming up through the ponies. She took a short break, and we’re happy to have her back in action again.”

Finally Farm assistant trainer Tamara Berkowitz won a 1.15m jumper class on Justified for owner Kelly Maloney. “I want to congratulate Tamara on her fast ride in the jump-off and how she’s developed such a nice partnership with the mare,” said Liza. “She and Kelly are doing such a good job bringing her along.”

Liza’s daughter Elle also made a splash in the show ring, riding Otis Spunkmeyer for the first time over cross rails in the Opportunity classes. “This week she trotted in and trotted out of the lines, and her goal next week is to trot in and canter out,” said Liza smiling.

Posted on September 15, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Liza Boyd Gallops to Handy Round Victory and Third Overall in USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships

Liza Boyd and Stella Styslinger celebrate O'Ryan's third-placed finish in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship

Liza Boyd may have missed her defending champion Brunello when she left him back at Finally Farm in Camden, South Carolina to attend the $280,500 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in Lexington, Kentucky on August 19-20. But she carried a part of him with her—she clipped a small piece of his tail and kept it in her pocket this week.

Maybe the magic of the three-time winner of the Championship worked, because Liza guided Stella Styslinger's O'Ryan to the top scores in the Handy Round (base scores of 91, 90 and 92, all four high options and handy bonus scores of 9, 8 and 10) to leapfrog up the standings from 12th into third place overall with 578 points.

In a fairytale ending, Helen Lenahan's Miss Lucy won the Championship with Kristy Herrera riding in place of Liza's good friend Jennifer Alfano, who is out of the saddle due to an injury. Powerhouse Derby rider Kelley Farmer placed second aboard Kodachrome.

“I'm so happy to be here," said Liza, laughing, during the press conference. "I just had fun on my Junior Hunter, and he stepped up for me, and I shed a little tear when I drove out of the driveway and gave Brunello a little kiss. I told him, ‘I can't do this without you!’ It's been six years, but tonight that horse O’Ryan stepped up for me, and I couldn't be happier."

Liza described her situation Saturday night as quite different from that of Herrera and Farmer, an interesting juxtaposition to her previous experiences aboard Brunello.

“I had a huge advantage not riding under pressure,” she explained. “I didn’t envy them. I’ve been in their shoes, and, to be honest, it was a relief not to be there. Kelley being on top and wanting it so badly for herself and her owners, Jane Gaston and Nina Moore, and all of those emotions at play. Then, Kristy had to try to fill Jen’s shoes, and those are some huge shoes to fill!

“I had it easy, and it was a very fun night for me,” she continued. “Of course I was nervous, but it was an exciting nervous. It’s such a fun class to ride in. Jen made a comment to me that really hit home; I couldn’t expect too much because most of the successful combinations in this class have strong partnerships—Jersey Boy and Jen and me with Brunello, for example. So I went in there believing in my horse and just rode the very best I could. O’Ryan is a game horse and was really amazing out there.”

Liza competed O'Ryan in two derbies earlier in the year to qualify for the Championships, but she'd never jumped him over all of the high options. Nevertheless, she knew his background, his talents with Stella as a Junior Hunter, and trusted that it would all work out.

"I really had to say, 'You can do this, and I just didn’t question it at all," said Liza of her mindset going into the Handy Hunter Round. "I went into the ring thinking, 'This horse can do this.' And I believed in him 100 percent. The horse was imported by Mike Zuckerman as an equitation prospect, and then trainer Don Stewart saw him and bought him as a hunter. Knowing the horse’s history, I'm sure he’d jumped plenty big in Europe. From the Classic Round to the Handy Round, he jumped every fence better and better."

Entering the Handy Round, Liza and O'Ryan stood 12th, so she knew she had nothing to lose and everything to gain by tacking chances. In the end, she was rewarded with a round that she'll now cherish as a personal favorite.

"It was one of those that everything came up out of stride," she reflected. "I always like to say a few rounds stand out in a rider's mind throughout a career. Obviously, last year’s round on Brunello was the top, and then Like I Said's Handy Round at Devon this year will always be up there. It's the same with this round on O'Ryan. It's definitely in the top five of some of the best rounds I've ever had.

"Usually, you come out of the ring and we as riders are so critical of ourselves," Liza explained. "You think, 'I could have done this better or that better.' But for O'Ryan's Handy I wouldn’t have changed anything. He landed on every lead, followed through over the fences and every distance was out of stride. And, for me, that’s as good as it gets.

For Liza, the Championship may have been bittersweet without Brunello, but it ended on a sweet note. "I feel at home in that ring and in that class at night. It was a fun feeling this year," she said. "The only thing I questioned a bit was, 'Can I do this without Brunello?' It was nice as rider to know you can—yes, I missed him terribly, but now I know that I can still go on without him."

Liza also competed Pony Lane Farm's Coronado and Like I Said and Billie Steffee's Maggie May in the Derby Championship and had several catch-rides in the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Championship, where she earned the Pre-Green Incentive Style Award.

In conjunction with the USHJA Championships, Finally Farm riders also enjoyed success during the concurrent Bluegrass Festival Horse Show.

In between his Derby Championship rounds, O'Ryan carried Stella to excellent ribbons in the Junior Hunters. Maraschino and Lily Bennett topped the 3'3" Junior Hunter Championship, while Parkland and Maggie Hill won the competitive NAL/WIHS Children's Hunter Classic. Maggie also placed fourth aboard Co Co Chanel.

Posted on August 27, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Blowing Rock Brings a Bonanza of Ribbons

Each year the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, typically tops the list as one of Finally Farm’s favorite shows. This year’s edition proved once again why showing and enjoying the hospitality, beauty and camaraderie of this two-week show brings so many special moments and creates so many lasting memories.

Many Finally Farm riders focus their summer show schedules on Blowing Rock as an end-of-summer goal, and this year the results of hard work and dedication paid dividends.

More Memories Made: Hunt Tosh, Martha Hall, Jack and Lisa Towell — More Memories Made: Hunt Tosh, Martha Hall, Jack and Lisa Towell

Zola Thompson was one rider who produced some her best performances of the year in the North Carolina mountains.

Aboard her Medium Pony Elegance, Zola took top ribbons in the section and then won the Combined Pony Hunter Classic during Week 1.

“It was a huge class, and then the top 12 returned for a second round,” said trainer Liza Boyd. “She had an amazing day, and she rode great. She’s come a long way this year and worked hard. She’s now well prepared for the U.S. Pony Finals (this week). We’re sending her to Kentucky with friend Robin Greenwood, and we wish her good luck and hope she has fun!”

Elly Ficca recently moved from a Medium Pony to ride horses, and her success has continued on. Aboard Black Ankle LLC’s Equanimity, whom she leased for Blowing Rock, Elly finished the show as the Children’s Hunter, 15-17, champion.

“She hadn’t ridden much or shown since last fall, so we were so excited to have her back,” said Liza. “She did the Pre-Children’s the first week and the Children’s the second week and got better and better. For not being in the saddle since November, I was so impressed she was able to hop on and do so well.”

Younger Children’s Hunter rider Maggie Hill also took top ribbons, including the Circuit Children’s Hunter, 14 and under, title with Parkland and great prizes with Co Co Chanel and Tasty.

“I want to send out a big thank you to Jennifer Gates for letting Maggie lease Parkland,” said Liza. “He’s such a wonderful, experienced horse, and Maggie feels lucky to have the opportunity to have a horse like him who has taught so many riders, such as Jen and Lillie Keenan. We’re really enjoying him. I also want to thank my brother Hardin for his help. Parkland knows his job, and if you ride him well he’s right there for you. He’ll teach Maggie a lot. He really likes her, and it’s a good match.”

The strong partnership of Laura Critz and Quatrain continued to shine brightly. The pair earned the Circuit Championship in the 3’3” Amateur-Owner Hunters after earning tricolors both weeks. With Liza in the irons, Quatrain also earned the Circuit Championship in the 3’6” Performance Working Hunters.

“It’s so fun to see a horse that was mine that really matured and turned into such a wonderful amateur horse,” said Liza. “And for him to be able to walk in the ring and also beat a lot of top open horses in the Performance section is icing on the cake.

Critz, who attends Wake Forest University in North Carolina, is another rider who chose Blowing Rock as her signature summer show before returning to college.

“I was so proud of Laura for starting in June and realizing her goal of doing well at Blowing Rock,” said Liza. “She showed in Charleston (South Carolina) the week before so she’s be well prepared, and her plan was so well thought out. Blowing Rock means a lot to her, and she made it all happen.”

“It was the best way to end summer,” added Laura.

Stella Styslinger added the Circuit Championship in the 3’6” Small Junior Hunters to the Finally Farm banner after riding O’Ryan to tricolor honors.

“Once again, he’s proven to be such a lovely horse for her,” said Liza. “They have a great partnership. She was also reserve champion on Cellino the second week, which was also a great achievement. Moving forward, I’ll do O’Ryan in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship in Kentucky, which I’m looking forward to doing. She’ll also continue to show him in the Juniors, with the fall indoor shows our next big goal on the horizon.”

Maddy Thatcher traveled directly from London to Blowing Rock after a study-abroad program and made the effort worthwhile with the Amateur-Owner, 18-35, championship with Summer Place.

“Maddy was great! She wasn’t too rusty,” said Liza laughing. “She was also second in the Amateur-Owner Hunter Classic. I rode Summer Place earlier in the week and also won both High Performances classes we did. He loves that horse show and the atmosphere there. I think there’s a lot of energy and people watching, and as a true show horse he thrives off of that. An older horse feels the excitement and jumps great, and Maddy rode him really well.”

Mary Carton Mitchener recently returned to the saddle after a back injury and guided Trinity to championship honors the first week and won the 3’3” Junior Hunter Classic. “It’s great to have her back after he injury,” said Liza. “They’re also a really good partnership and team, and I was so happy that they were successful together at Blowing Rock.”

On the Jumper side, Erin McGuire and Kasarr continued their amazing partnership and even enjoyed a special highlight that comes few and far between.

“I think they won every class they went in, and they retired the Spin The Night Challenge Trophy for the Amateur-Owner Jumper Championship after winning it three times,” said Liza. “That horse and Erin have a bond and such a strong relationship that they’re hard to beat. They’re fast and consistent and tough.”

Liza described Kasarr as a horse that’s become much more than anyone expected, and she credited Erin for encouraging him to go above and beyond his potential through her caretaking and carefully planning his competition schedule so he’ll peak at just the right times.

“She always looks at the big picture,” noted Liza. “I think she now has six weeks until they show again. Erin always has a goal, and she also really follows her plans and goals and figures it out way in advance. She’s at the University of South Carolina, and he lives with us. She’s also really into fitness training and teaches at the gym, and those lessons carry over to her horse.

“For instance, she’ll come out to the barn during the hottest time of day. We’ll all be done riding, and we’ll say, ‘What are you doing here?’ And she’ll say, ‘I have to ride Benny now so he stays accustomed to being ridden in the heat.’ That horse is as good as he is because he believes in her, and she believes in him. She treats him and cares for him as an athlete. He shouldn’t jump that big, but he does it for her.”

Liza wasn’t without her own accolades at Blowing Rock. She rode Pony Lane Farm’s Like I Said to the victory in the USHJA International Hunter Derby, a featured event during Week 2.

The pair hadn’t contested a derby since June, and Liza had planned for Blowing Rock to be the mare’s return and preparation for the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship to be held two weeks later. She also guided Pony Lane’s Coronado to fourth and Finally Farm’s Shamrock to sixth.

“They were all a little rusty the first day in the First Year Greens,” she said. “They were a little fresh, but by day No. 2 Like I Said won the first First Year Green over fences class and Coronado won the Handy. They were starting to come around again.”

During the derby on Saturday night, Liza felt Like I Said was back on her game. The pair won the Classic Round and never relinquished the lead, winning the Handy round as well for the overall victory.

Adeline, riding, and Elle Boyd, leading, also shared the show ring spotlight with mother Liza, earning ribbons and making memories in the lead line and pony sections! — Adeline, riding, and Elle Boyd, leading, also shared the show ring spotlight with mother Liza, earning ribbons and making memories in the lead line and pony sections!

“During the Handy I did choose to do some low options,” Liza noted. “Jennifer Bliss, who was standing second, had done some low options as well, so there was no reason take the risk. She went great, and Coronado was fourth. He jumped really well, and for a 6-year-old I couldn’t be happier with how he’s going. They’ll both be set up well for the Derby Finals because of the atmosphere there. It was getting dark when we went in the Handy, and with the stands and the party going on, it was such good exposure and practice for the horses and riders to stay focused.”

Please enjoy some of our favorite snapshots from the two weeks at Blowing Rock!

Posted on August 9, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Finally Farm Enjoys Summer Fun at Charleston

The Charleston Summer Classic Horse Shows enjoyed their 25th anniversary this year, and Finally Farm riders celebrated right along with Bob Bell’s Classic Company during a week of fun in the sun just outside of Charleston, South Carolina.

“Each day we got done at a reasonable hour, and everybody has a wonderful time there,” said trainer Liza Boyd who likened it to a “showcation.” “It’s a really cute show grounds, and you can go to the beach in just minutes. Jack likes the show because there are all of those roadside stands with fresh veggies. Jack likes to cook, and he always enjoys trying new recipes, such as crab cakes and other seafood.”

In addition to watching over his kitchen duties, Jack spent time at the pony ring where his riders produced excellent results. Zola Thompson showed her consistency in the Medium Pony Hunter section with the reserve championship and victory in the Classic aboard Elegance.

“Zola was great, and we were really proud of her hard work,” said Liza. “She was super consistent. Jack helped her all weekend while I was at a different ring. I think he had fun hanging out at the pony ring for a change. She’s excited because she gets to go to U.S. Pony Finals next month in Kentucky, and all of the lessons she’s taken lately have really paid off.”

Lily Bennett is also finding her stride this summer. In addition to her prowess in the Junior Hunters with Maraschino—on whom she was champion and won the Classic—Lily has further developed her jumper talents.

“Lily was second in the Children’s Jumper Classic on Zimba, which was a great, great ribbon,” said Liza. “She’s really figuring out the time allowed now and doing all of the right numbers in the lines. She really had a breakthrough at Charleston, where she was really able to go for it in the jump offs and truly understands the tighter turns and time.”

Stella Styslinger also had a great show, picking up multiple tricolor ribbons on her Junior Hunters Invincible and O’Ryan.

Jennifer Gates’ Parkland made a return to the show ring after a break and carried Maggie Hill to top ribbons in the Low Children’s Hunters. “Maggie is leasing him, and this was his first show back so he just did the 2’9” section,” said Liza. “We are so excited to have him going again and in the barn. Maggie will move up to the Children’s Hunters and eventually to the 3’3” Juniors. They’re already a great match.”

Maggie also piloted Tasty to victory in the Children’s Hunter Classic and earned the Children’s Hunter, 14 and under, section championship aboard Co Co Chanel. Finally Farm also retained the reserve championship in the section, with Look Again and Ruby Sloan capturing top ribbons.

After recovering from an injury, Mary Carton Michener returned to the show ring after a lengthy break to ride Trinity to excellent ribbons, including second place in the Children’s, 15-17, Classic. “We were so happy for her to come back do so well,” noted Liza.

Posted on July 19, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Summer Success at Spruce Meadows

Hardin Towell and Jennifer Gates traveled to Spruce Meadows in Calgary, Alberta, this summer and enjoyed ample successes at the Pan American and North American CSI5* Tournaments from June 28-July 10.

Highlights included Jenn and Lord Levisto receiving second-placed honors on Team "Super Mario" in the 1.40m Prix des Nations during the Pan American. With Mario Deslauriers at the helm as chef d'equipe, the team of Alexandra Crown/Emperio cant Roosakker, Lucy Deslauriers/Hamlet, Hilary McNerney/Vitesse and Jenn with Lord Levisto finished just behind the Chilangos team from Mexico.

Jenn Gates and Lord Levisto (black horse) during the Nations Cup awards ceremony.

Jenn and Lord Levisto posted an impressive clear and a four-fault round to help her team clinch second place.

Hardin and Lucifer V also picked up some top prizes against some of the best horses and riders in the world. They captured fifth place in the Cargill Cup 1.55m

Hardin also earned another great ribbon during the Spruce Meadows Pan American Tournament. He guided Emilie De Diamant to a double-clear performance in the WestJet Cup 1.45m for third place out of 74 starters.

Jenn also guided Cadence to excellent ribbons in the Junior/Amateur-Owner 1.40m classes, and she rode Luftikus S to a double-clear and fifth place in the CIBC Cup 1.50 on the Meadows On The Green, one of Saturday's featured FEI classes.

During the North American Tournament, Hardin started out the week strongly with Emilie De Diamont AS. The pair jumped double-clear to place fourth in the PwC Cup 1.55m featured FEI class.

Jenn and Caddie R jumped double-clear and placed seventh in the Purdy's Chocolatier Junior/Amateur-Owner Challenge. The following day Jenn collected another impressive ribbon with her seventh-placed finish aboard Lord Levisto in the Pepsi U25 Challenge 1.45m.

In the week's apex class, the ATCO Queen Elizabeth II Cup 1.60m, Hardin and Lucifer V jumped two perfect rounds and then had one rail in the jump-off for sixth place.

In the Coril Holdings Junior/Amateur Mini Grand Prix 1.30m, Jenn placed second aboard Cadence with a beautiful double-clear performance to end the week on a great note.

Posted on July 13, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Celebrating Olympic Spirit at the Atlanta Summer Classics

Chacor and Brie Tiffany competing in the Georgia International Horse Park's Stadium.

Bob Bell and The Classic Company's Atlanta Summer Classic Horse Shows, June 15-26, are always a featured stop on the Finally Farm summer show calendar, and this year the shows were even more memorable as Classic Company celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Atlanta Summer Olympic Games held at the venue in Conyers, Georgia.

"Bob did an especially nice job on the shows this year," said trainer Liza Boyd. "It's the anniversary, so he decorated the stadium, including the Olympic Rings on the hillside of the stadium they used for the Games and made it look pretty. Some of their grand prix courses were the same as those used at the Games, too, so that was well thought out and neat and different than your normal show."

Many Finally Farm riders rose to that winning Olympic spirit, including Erin McGuire, who guided her Kasarr to the Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Championship and the Classic victory during Week 1. They also picked up impressive placings during Week 2.

"Erin was really stellar the first week," said Liza. "She and that horse have such a great relationship. They went really fast in the jump-off of the classic for a great win. The fences were true and solid, and the high division had some impressive horse-and-rider combinations. It was a great week for her."

Lily Bennett and Maraschino continued their winning streak in Atlanta, making a clean sweep in the 3'3" Junior Hunters. The pair won all four over fences classes and topped the card in the Junior Hunter Classic during Week 1.

Trainer Jack Towell congratulates Maraschino and Lily Bennett after one of their winning performances in Atlanta.

In addition to the strong rapport Lily has developed with the chestnut mare, Liza also credited Lily's recent mileage in the jumper ring for helping her become a more consistent hunter rider.

"Lily had many double-clear rounds with her jumpers, and so when she comes back to the hunters it seems so much easier for her," said Liza. " During Week 2, she was double clear in the classic on both of her horses, Athina and Zimba. Now she has to learn to be a little faster, but she’s making it into the jump-offs, which is fantastic."

In the 3'6" Junior Hunters, Finally Farm horses were hard to beat. With Devin Seek in the irons for the vacationing Stella Styslinger, the hunters Invincible, O'Ryan and Cellino gathered up tricolor honors during both weeks as well as Classic victories.

"Devin Seek, who trains with Don Stewart, catch rode for Stella and did a great job," said Liza. "She's a lovely rider and a great kid. She was fun, talented and is eager to learn and appreciative. We were so happy that she could help us out."

After some time out of the show ring, Maggie Hill returned during Atlanta and made up for lost time. She guided Co Co Chanel to the Children's, 14 and under, championship during Week 2 after winning three of the five section classes.

"She started out a little rusty so she didn't show Week 1, and we practiced the whole week," said Liza. "Maggie had lots of lessons and really made a breakthrough in her riding. This time last year she'd just started with us doing the 2’6”, and her background was in eventing and dressage. She's really come so far, and this week it all came together.

"She had learned to manage the pace and track in the hunters, but she hadn't figured out how to make the deep distance work," continued Liza. "This week we really focused on that skill and used various exercises to perfect the deep distance. As a teacher, it was fun for me to do this and see her progress. She just jumped an X, and I had her practice getting as close as possible to the base. She had no idea a horse could collect his stride and get that close to the jump. Often, kids recognize the distance will be deep, but they don't take the pressure off of the horse and keep pushing. Often, you can take a deep distance that may be a 'C' or 'D' jump and make it a 'B' or 'B+' effort by the horse by using your body and balancing the horse. It was so much fun to see the light bulb go off and her subsequent results in the show ring."

Maddy Thatcher traveled to Atlanta for Week 1 and collected a variety of excellent ribbons before traveling to England to study abroad this summer. A highlight was her reserve championship in the Amateur-Owner, 18-35, section aboard Jewel.

"It was also great to see her get nice ribbons on Like I Said. She was third and third the first day and then second and second over fences on the second day. That partnership is really coming together," noted Liza.

Finally Farm horses and riders will take a short break before resuming their show season at the Charleston Summer Classic Horse Shows in South Carolina. After spending a few days at Lake Oconee for Father's Day in between the two weeks of Atlanta, Liza, her husband Blake and daughters Elle and Adeline will travel to the beach while the staff rotates vacation days as well.

"Now we’re glad to be home and have a little relaxation," said Liza. "This short break is great for everyone as well as the horses, and we'll all return refreshed and ready for the second half of the summer show season."

Posted on June 29, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Triumphs at Tryon Spring 8

The Tryon Spring 8 and Tryon Riding and Hunt Club Charity Horse Show, June 8-12 in Mill Spring, North Carolina, was a highlight event on Finally Farm's early summer schedule.

In addition to Brunello's Breyer Debut and Celebration, the show featured a full contingent of Finally Farm riders who enjoyed ample ribbons and awards in the Hunter and Jumper sections.

Pony Lane Farm's Coronado swept all four First Year Green Working Hunter over fences classes to easily earn the championship ribbon with Liza Boyd aboard. The pair went on to contest the USHJA International Hunter Derby.

"He went so nicely, and I was so pleased with him," said Liza of the 6-year-old Zangersheide stallion by Coriano Z. "He amazes me. He's so much like Brunello in so many ways. He went on a trail ride before the class as his preparation--even at 7 p.m. for a night class with a huge crowd, and he's only 6! If not for an unlucky rail, he would have had great scores in the Classic Round. He was so good, and I was thrilled with him."

Liza and Pony Lane Farm's Like I Said, recent winners at Devon, enjoyed their time in the Derby spotlight and placed ninth overall for yet another derby ribbon added to their collection.

Finally Farm's tricolor count was aided by O’Ryan, who earned the 3'6" Junior Hunter Championship and also finished up as the circuit champion. Hunter Holloway and Stella Styslinger combined forces in the saddle, and their points from both weeks captured the title.

Maraschino and Lily Bennett also added the 3'3" Junior Hunter championship and Junior Hunter Classic wins to the Finally Farm collection.

"Lily now has three Children’s Jumpers with the addition of Zimba," said Liza. "She's leasing him, and I want to thank trainers Daniel Geitner and Scot Evans. He's a lovely horse, and we’re excited to have him in the barn."

Liza credited Lily's ring time in the jumpers for helping her clinch the hunter championship with Maraschino. "By the time Maraschino showed in afternoon, Lily had successfully shown her jumpers. She went into the handy round confident with taking the inside turns. The turns were slower and easier after the jumpers, and I attributed her success from having that experience under her belt."

Reserve championship winners included Ruby Sloan and Look Again in the Children's Hunter, 14 and under, section, with Zola Thompson riding Elegance to the Medium Pony reserve title.

"I want to thank Robin Greenwood, who helped us with Elegance, which is her pony," said Liza. "With Robin, Tamara Berkowitz and myself, Zola had three trainers with her. It was a total group effort!

"I was so proud of Zola," added Liza. "She's a much stronger and more educated rider this year, and she’s come a long way. They drive from Alabama for lessons, and I want to thank her mom Alex Thompson for being so dedicated and the perfect chauffeur. I can tell a big difference in Zola's riding, and having Robin's help was great. Tamara and I listened and learned. Robin has produced a lot of top riders and ponies and has a passion for the kids. She's so good at explaining things in ways kids can understand. I may say the same thing, but the way she words things really allows them to wrap their heads around the philosophies. Robin has taught Zola a lot, and we’ve enjoyed learning, too."

Over in the jumper rings, Maddy Thatcher and Balvino captured the Amateur-Owner Jumper reserve championship and won the Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic.

"This show was great for Maddy and Balvino," said Liza. "She's starting to really click with that horse. It took her a little bit of time to figure him out, but now she has and it's a great match. I"m really happy it all came together for them at Tryon. She's worked so hard, so that Classic win was an especially gratifying victory for her."

Posted on June 15, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Hardin Towell Stars at the Spruce Meadows National

Hardin Towell traveled to Spruce Meadows in Calgary, Alberta, for the summer series and immediately made his presence known during the "National" CSI 5* Tournament, held June 8-12. He won the opening day's Back On Track 1.50m speed class aboard Lucifer V and then again rode to top honors in the RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m on Friday. Congratulations to Hardin and Jennifer Gates LLC for a great start to the summer show season!

Highlights from the June 10, 2016 Spruce Meadows Media Release include:

Jack Hardin Towell Jr. of the United States and Lucifer V won the RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m on Friday at the Spruce Meadows ‘National’, presented by Rolex. Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Chacco Kid finished second, while Ben Asselin (CAN) was third on Plume de la Roque.

The RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m had 21 entries, and eight were clear to move on to the jump-off. Setting the opening pace with a clear round was Tiffany Foster (CAN) on Cadalora, who stopped the timers in 45.02 seconds. They would eventually finish in fourth place.

Calgary’s own Ben Asselin and Plume de la Roque lowered the winning time down to 44.00 seconds to hold onto third place. Patricio Pasquel (MEX) and Candela slipped into fifth place with a time of 45.69 seconds.

Eric Lamaze (CAN) and Chacco Kid made a bid for the win with a speedy time of 42.61 seconds, but it was last to go who proved to be the best. Jack Hardin Towell Jr. and Lucifer V, a 10-year-old Westphalian gelding (Lord Pezi x Grandeur) owned by Jennifer Gates, put the pedal down to win in 40.96 seconds.

Hardin Towell hoists the championship trophy with David Dal Bello, managing director at RBC Capital Markets during the awards ceremony.

“I was lucky enough to go last and see him go,” Towell said of Lamaze. “My horse is naturally quick, so I went quite fast. I knew what I had to do, and I thought I did enough. Luckily, the last two jumps I caught right out of stride. My horse is very naturally quick. I gave it a shot, and it worked out.”

This was the pair’s second win of the week, having previously topped the Back on Track Cup 1.50m. Towell has stepped Lucifer V, his top horse, down to the 1.50m competitions this week and focused on his other horse, New York, for the grand prix.

Towell noted, “After World Cup Finals, it didn’t go the way I would have liked, so maybe I lost a little confidence in myself and Lucifer. It’s nice to go back down and gain confidence again. My plan is to do him in the grand prix next week. I entered him in the right classes. Now I have a lot of confidence in him going into next week.”

Lamaze may have a new star in Chacco Kid, but he did not go all out in this jump-off.

“Hardin is a very fast rider, and I knew that perhaps I left the door open,” he conceded. “In my case, I felt like I asked as much out of my horse tonight [as I could]. If I went after Hardin tonight, I don’t think much would have changed for me. It’s a new horse for me that I’m really happy with, that I love, so I’m a bit cautious. But I thought I put enough pressure to make him run, and at that point anything can happen.”

Lamaze termed Chacco Kid as a “great one,” and added, “He has everything to me that great horses do. After that, he has to prove me right, but I’m really excited about this horse. Winning or not, I was very excited about his jump-off.”

Hardin also placed eighth in the class aboard New York, a 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, owned by Jennifer Gates LLC.

To watch Hardin's jump-off, check out the National Friday Highlights video!

Towell Goes For Speed in Back on Track Cup

There were 38 entries that went to post for the Back on Track Cup 1.50m speed, and 14 were clear to lead the results. The fastest of those was Jack Hardin Towell (USA) on Jennifer Gates LLC’s Lucifer V, who stopped the timers in 60.86 seconds for victory.

Towell brought Lucifer V, a 10-year-old Westphalian gelding (Lord Pezi x Grandeur) to Spruce Meadows last year with some success. He has grown into one of Towell’s top grand prix horses, performing well at CSI 5* events. After a month’s break following the winter season, Towell decided to step Lucifer V down this week while his second mount, New York, does the grand prix.

“There’s nothing like being over-horse-powered in a class!” he said with a laugh. “I thought I would give it a little bit of a go. He jumped quite well, and he feels good. He always jumps well here. It was nice to step him down and go in there for both our confidence, together.”

With age comes wisdom, and Towell feels lucky that both of his top horses are maturing and growing.

Hardin Towell hoists the Back on Track Trophy with Tim McLeod, acting president of Back on Track.

He said, “It’s amazing how much they’ve grown in a year’s time. This class last year, Lucifer went in. I probably would have been close to winning, and then he saw something, spooked, and reared. It’s nice that both of my horses are 10 years old now; they’re a little older and more experienced. I feel like they’re coming along well.”

To watch Hardin's winning round, check out the National Wednesday Highlights video!

Final Results: Back on Track Cup 1.50m

1. LUCIFER V: 2006 Westphalian gelding by Lord Dezi x Grandeur - HARDIN TOWELL (USA), Jennifer Gates LLC: 0/60.86

2. ROSANA DU PARK: 2005 Selle Francais mare by Kannan - ERIC LAMAZE (CAN), Artisan Farms & Torrey Pines Stable: 0/61.47

3. DOOLEY’S DELUXE: 2004 SACHS gelding by Dinglinger x Lesotho - VANESSA MANNIX (CAN), Vanessa Mannix: 0/67.13

Final Results: RBC Capital Markets Cup 1.50m

1. LUCIFER V: 2006 Westphalian gelding by Lord Dezi x Grandeur - HARDIN TOWELL (USA), Jennifer Gates LLC: 0/0/40.96

2. CHACCO KID: 2006 Oldenburg by Chacco Blue x Come On - ERIC LAMAZE (CAN), Chacco Kid Group: 0/0/42.61

3. PLUME DE LA ROQUE: 2003 Selle Francais mare by Kannan x Adelfos BEN ASSELIN (CAN), Attache Stables: 0/0/44.00

Posted on June 14, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Brunello's Breyer Debut

Brunello's Breyer Celebration at the Tryon International Equestrian Center

After Brunello won his third consecutive USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship last August with rider Liza Boyd, many of his fans hoped to see his likeness depicted as a Breyer Animal Creations model.

On Friday June 10 their wish was granted at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, North Carolina when Brunello and his owners Janet Peterson and Liza Boyd escorted the famous chestnut gelding center ring to unveil his model before a capacity crowd of spectators.

In between the Classic and Handy rounds of the USHJA International Hunter Derby held that evening, Brunello, nicknamed Ike, was honored for his remarkable career, which will now also be immortalized through Breyer.

"There was a slide show and videos of his hunter derby wins and great photos on the Jumbotron screen so everyone could see him perform," said Liza. "I think the spectators were really into it, and some had come that night just to see him. It was such a privilege to be there with him.

Jack Towell introduces Brunello to his Breyer.

"People came up to me and said they were there to support Brunello and so they could one day say they shared a part of that horse’s career," added Liza. "For them, it was really special. I think he’s a horse everyone can relate to and many people knew and love. It was an exciting moment for the sport, and Tryon brought out so many people. Kids came to the barn afterward and played with him, and parents came up and thanked me and told me their kids looked up to us. It was really overwhelming."

The celebration continued on Saturday with an autograph session with Liza as well as a "Meet and Greet" with Ike and his longtime groom Alberto Ramirez.

"I signed many of the Breyer models on their bellies," said Liza with a laugh. "There were lots of cute pony kids that I knew and then some people who were Breyer collectors who drove in just for the signing. Alberto brought Ike to the Pony Pen, where they usually have the pony rides. He was so good. He loved meeting everyone and was such a ham. The smaller the kids the more he loved on them."

Even though Ike can be grumpy in the barn at times, he displayed his true, gentle character throughout the weekend. "He was so calm and such a good boy," said Liza. "Walking down into the ring during the derby I’m sure he was a little confused because he was braided but not competing. But then he seemed to soak it all up. Once again, that horse never lets us down; he stepped up and was the perfect gentleman."

Posted on June 13, 2016 by Tricia Booker.

Like I Said and Liza Boyd Take Devon's $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

Pony Lane Farm's Like I Said and Liza Boyd

If there's one rider on the circuit who loves a challenge, it's Liza Boyd. So, when she returned standing fifth after the Classic Round aboard Like I Said in the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at Devon, she knew what she needed to do: go all out.

And, the resulting Handy Ride vaulted her and Pony Lane Farm's 8-year-old mare to the head of the class with scores of 95 + 3 (high options) + 9 (Handy Bonus) and 93 + 3 + 10 from the two judging panels.

"For me, it was one of those rounds that we strive for as riders," said Liza. "That’s why we do this. It’s our addiction to have rounds like that. And when I came out of the ring, I couldn’t critique my round in one single place. I never do that. So, that's always the ultimate feeling--everything came up exactly how I wanted, she jumped every jump a 10 and obviously the judges agreed. It was another round that will go down as top rounds I’ve ever had."

Like I Said and team Finally Farm celebrating in the Dixon Oval at Devon

Liza also rode Billie Steffee's Maggie Mae to seventh place overall after taking over the ride when friend and fellow professional Jennifer Alfano injured her knee earlier in the week.

"I'm really grateful that they chose me to ride Maggie," said Liza. "Any time you have more than one horse in a derby your chances are a lot greater, and you get to ride the course and get more of a feel for it. Maggie is more seasoned than my mare, so it was great to get in the ring first on her. She was so good, and it was so much fun to ride her."

After winning the First Year Green Handy class aboard Like I Said earlier in the week, Liza had hoped "Sally" would do well in the derby.

"I went in without any real expectations, though. In the first round she shied away from crowd a little," said Liza. "It was nothing bad, and I was so happy with her and as a First Year horse she was so good. Then, for the Handy, I’m always good at returning as an underdog because I figure there's nothing to lose.

"After I came out of the ring, I thought I'd probably end up third in my mind, and I thought that was great," she continued. "I didn’t think Louise Serio (standing second) would play it safe and Nick Hanness (standing first) had a substantial lead. I think Nick could have jumped the last low jump, but he chose the high option and had the rail down. That’s what makes these derbies so exciting for people to watch--anything can happen. It’s like a jumper class rather than hunter class, where you're better able to predict the outcome. These classes are exciting because there's so much strategy involved, and you just never know what will happen."

Like I Said and Liza Boyd clearing a High Option fence with room to spare!

Even though Liza is a three-time winner of the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship aboard the venerable Brunello and has won countless derbies throughout the country on a variety of mounts, this particular class had eluded her until this year.

"To win this class was so special," she said. "I was excited to get this under my belt. Brunello and I could never conquer that derby, so it’s a fantastic accomplishment for me."

Liza also credited the entire Finally Farm team for their support and allowing her to focus on riding and showing to the best of her abilities.

"I have to thank Randi Button, who takes care of Sally. She knows that mare so well and the day of the derby she told me, 'She's her playful self, Liza. She's on.' Randi was right. And when she said that, it gave me so much more reassurance. If Randi says she's going to be good, then she will be."

In addition, Assistant Trainer Tamara Berkowitz had another contingent of Finally Farm horses and riders at the Tryon horse show in North Carolina, while Max Mandel was at home base in Camden, South Carolina, riding, teaching lessons and preparing a second group of horses that will be traveling to Tryon next week.

"I really couldn't do this all without the backbone of this amazing team," said Liza, also noting the support she received from her parents, Jack and Lisa Towell. "I think sometimes people forget that the horse and rider winning these big classes don't do it alone; there are so many others who make it all possible for us to stand center ring for the awards."

"To win this class was so special," said Liza Boyd.

Finally Farm's success wasn't limited to the derby, however. Lily Bennett's Maraschino earned the Small Junior, 15 and under, reserve champion with McKayla Langmeier aboard, while Maddy Thatcher had excellent performances in the Amateur-Owner hunter and jumper sections aboard Summer Place and Show Show.

To view Liza and Sally's Handy Round performance on USEF Network, please visit their Facebook page.

For more articles and photos about Liza and Sally's winning performance in the USHJA International Hunter Derby, please click on these links!

The Devon Horse Show Daily Update

Phelps Sports

The Chronicle of the Horse

Special thanks to The Book LLC for the beautiful photography.

Posted on June 5, 2016 by Tricia Booker.